Things to Do in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. John is the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands and boasts unspoiled beauty which is becoming quite uncommon in the Caribbean, or actually anywhere else in the world. Two-thirds of St. John’s 19 square miles is preserved and protected as national park land. There are many activities to choose from here on little St. John, but be sure to schedule time to just relax. After all that’s why you are here right?

Read our selections of just a few things we enjoy doing here on island. If you are interested in booking an activity or have additional questions be sure to contact our Property Manager in the Serendip Office.

Area Attractions

Annaberg Ruins

This former sugar plantation maintains a wealth of history and cultural folklore. Visitors to this site revisit the remnants of plantation life and the occupation of slaves during the 18th century. Check the schedules at the National Park Visitors Center to learn about weekly demonstrations of cultural traditions, including basket weaving, music and dance.

Pristine Beaches

St. John offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The most visited of them all is Trunk Bay that features an underwater snorkeling trail that educates visitors on the coral species.

Reef Bay Trail

There are over 22 hiking trails on St. John however the most popular is Reef Bay. This trail boasts some of St. Johns oldest trees and is also home to the Petroglyphs. These rock carvings were created by the indigenous inhabitants of St. John, the Taino Indians.

Coral Bay

Visit the quaint town of Coral Bay, St. Johns first settlement. Be sure to take time on your trip to explore the one of a kind boutiques and restaurant on this end of the island.

Outdoor ADventures

Carolina corral

An equestrian center- ride along the water through Coral Bay; Views of the BVIs & East End. Check out their rescued horses, donkeys, sheep, goat & more.

Calypso

Book a dinghy rental and get out on the ocean to explore the National Reef Monument in the National Park. Make your own itinerary as you beach hop in your private boat for the day.

Love City Paddle Boards

Explore the best of St John’s National Park on your own stand up paddleboards. Rent one just for the day or take a lesson for the afternoon.

Guided Hike

Join a Park Ranger on a hike down the Reef Bay Trail. This hike is the most visited on island and you will learn even more with your own Park Guide. The park arranges for a boat to meet the group at the bottom saving you from the climb back up to the trail head. Sign up at the Friends of VINP Store.

Arawak Expeditions

Sign up for a one day or week long kayak tour adventure. See the surrounding cays and visit untouched snorkeling spots on your kayak tour.

Cruz Bay Watersports

Visit their location in town to rent snorkel gear, sign up for a trip to the British Virgin Islands, shop the retail store, or just ask a few questions about what to do while you are on island.

Local Restaurants

Zozo's restaurant

This restaurant can be found in the Sugar Mill in Caneel Bay Resort. Arguably THE best restaurant in the VI. They boast an extensive Italian menu, nightly specials, 28 day in house aged steaks, and homemade pastas and desserts.

ocean grill

This restaurant can be found in the courtyard of Mongoose 1 on the outskirts of Down Town Cruz Bay. They are known for their extensive seafood selection but be sure to save room for their one of a kind homemade desserts!!

north shore deli

Stop at this deli to grab breakfast in the morning and order Greek inspired sandwiches for your day at the beach.

de coal pot

The only restaurant that serves authentic West Indian cuisine in down town Cruz Bay. Order off the menu or try something you’ve never had before.

castaway's tavern

This sports bar is located in the heart of Cruz Bay and is St. John’s only sports bar. Enjoy a beer and some nachos while you watch the game on one of their fifteen televisions.

drink

This bar is located off the beaten track on the way to Grand Bay Resort in Cruz Bay Harbor. It is the newest bar in Cruz Bay but it is changing the drinking scene completely. Join them for afternoon happy hour and enjoy appetizers on their deck from The Terrace Restaurant next door.

scoops

If you are in the mood for something sweet you have to stop here on the way to or from the beach. Be sure to get your scoops in one of their handmade waffle cones!

uncle joes bbq

Visit St. John’s oldest BBQ spot to get your heaping serving of their famous ribs, chicken, and steak. Enjoy all of their authentic side dishes made fresh daily.

the tap room

Stop by this little bar in the upper level of Mongoose Junction. Sample their small batch brew or try a bottle of one of St. Johns only locally made beer. We love the Summer Ale!